Nigerians have been urged to hold local government officials accountable and demand good governance, especially in light of the recent financial autonomy granted to the local government tier. This call was made by Oladele Oyelude, the Director-General of Tinubu-Shettima Youth Ambassadors, during a gathering in Osogbo on Saturday. He emphasized that with greater financial control now placed in the hands of local government chairmen, it is critical for citizens to monitor and ensure the effective use of public funds at the grassroots level.

According to Oyelude, the Bola Tinubu-led administration’s move to transfer financial power from state governors to local governments is a step toward driving development closer to the people. He stressed that grassroots governance has a direct impact on the daily lives of Nigerians, making it essential for communities to follow their local governments’ budgets and hold them accountable.

“We should focus on enthroning good governance at the grassroots. Nigerians must seize the opportunity of financial autonomy to put elected officials at the local government level on their toes,” Oyelude said. “We should ensure value for every allocation given before they become another monster.”

Oyelude also highlighted the need for civic responsibility in monitoring how local government funds are utilized, calling on Nigerians to demand transparency in budget implementation. With local governments now more independent in their financial management, Oyelude believes this is an opportunity for citizens to ensure proper governance and prevent mismanagement.

Additionally, Oyelude touched on the ongoing debate surrounding the Tax Reform Bill, particularly the concerns raised by Northern Governors. He noted that while the bill aims to ensure financial equity across the nation, the criticisms from the governors were unnecessary. “The National Assembly will do justice to the bill. If there is a need for adjustments, they will handle it. The noise is really unnecessary,” he said.

Oyelude’s remarks come at a crucial time when Nigerians are looking for improved governance at all levels, and financial autonomy at the local government level is seen as a key driver for development at the grassroots.